Steele, described by WWE as "one of the wildest and most unpredictable superstars in sports-entertainment history," actually had a master's degree from Central Michigan University and was a high school teacher and wrestling coach in the Detroit area before embarking on his career as a pro wrestler.

With a trademark green tongue and hairy torso, "The Animal" was for two decades beginning in the late 1960s a villain known for his rivalry with Bruno Sammartino.

He's among a who's who of professional wrestling that includes opponents such as Randy "Macho Man" Savage and Hulk Hogan, who noted Steele's passing, calling him "my brother."

"The Animal" reached a key point in his career in 1985 when, under fellow WWE Hall of Famer Capt. Lou Albano's tutelage, he underwent a career transformation, going from one of WWE's most hated to one of its most lovable figures. In doing so, he grew into somewhat of a cultural touchstone, appearing in films such as "Ed Wood" and being mentioned on "Seinfeld."

According to WWE, "Long after his in-ring retirement and WWE Hall of Fame induction, George 'The Animal' Steele’s name still evoked terror for one generation of WWE fans and warm smiles for another."